Posted on: Friday 19 July 2024
Plans to introduce new recycling bags to help improve the efficiency of the service and reduce litter have been given the go-ahead.
Information leaflets explaining what will go into the red bags will be distributed with the bags later this year.
The new bags will be used for plastic, cans, tins, and cartons and will be collected weekly, alongside black boxes, cardboard bags and food waste bins. Glass, paper, batteries, and textiles will continue to go into the black boxes.
Collecting recycling separately is in line with the Welsh Government's Blueprint for Recycling Collections.
Councillor Sue Morgan, Executive Member for Waste and Sustainability, said: “We understand some people may be concerned about storing another recyclable container, but the bags are bigger than the black boxes so most people will only need one bag and one box rather than multiple boxes. The bags can also be folded and stored inside the black boxes when empty.
“Many people already separate their recycling into different black boxes, which makes a big difference to crews.
“We really appreciate the efforts so many people are making to help improve our recycling rate in Torfaen."
The new bags will improve the efficiency of the recycling service because plastic, cans, tins and cartons are loaded onto the trucks together.
The bags will also have sealable lids - similar to the blue cardboard bags - which will reduce the risk of items falling out or being blown away.
It is hoped improvements to the service will encourage people to recycle more.
In 2023, 87 per cent of people who took part in the Raise the Rate survey said they would be prepared to separate their recycling.
Your red bag questions answered
Find out more about recycling in Torfaen